Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Court adds twist to airpark saga
By LISA WAHLA HOWARD
The Antelope Valley (CA) Press
LOS ANGELES – A federal court decision concerning a small Florida airport could impact the Agua Dulce Airpark, which is awaiting new operating conditions now being drafted by the county. Airpark opponents want to see further restrictions placed on the small airport, including restrictions on the types of aircraft that can be flown in and out.
But the county Regional Planning Commission, in a series of public hearings, indicated its belief that the Federal Aviation Administration bars such local control over airports.
However, a federal appeals court decision earlier this month agreed with the Naples, Fla. Airport Authority that a type of Stage 2 jet produced in the 1970s and 1980s could be banned.
The decision also stated that the FAA “should have concluded that the Naples community revolves around this particular (quiet) environment . and that its residents and visitors have an expectation of quiet throughout virtually the entire community.”
Justine Turner, an Agua Dulce resident and airpark opponent, is hopeful the court decision can be applied locally.
